2020 Nissan Titan XD Loses Diesel V-8, Gains More Muscle

After a dismal performance by the 2016 Nissan Titan XD diesel, consumers have since been on the lookout for an all-improved replacement or at least an improvement to the slightly heavy-duty truck.

The closest thing to an improvement customers can expect for now, however, is the truck losing the 5.0-liter Cummins diesel V-8 engine while getting an update to the gas-powered 5.6-liter V-8 that makes 400 horsepower and 413 lb-ft of torque. The seven-speed automatic transmission is also being booted out to make way for a nine-speed unit.

Aside from powertrain changes, the Titan XD will have interior and exterior upgrades, additional technology and safety features, as well as increased towing and payload capacities.

For the upcoming model year, the model is getting unique grille designs and tailgate styles that vary per trin m level. The PRO-4X, for one, will have an all-black grille with an all-new Lava Red Nissan badge, while the XD is getting updated headlights that feature an engraved Titan logo inside. On the rear end, the PRO-4X will come with a matching all-black tailgate and red Nissan badge, while the Platinum Reserve will banner a Satin Chrome tailgate. On top of these, four exterior colors exclusive to the Titan XD will be offered: Super Black, Baja Storm, Red Alert, and Cardinal Red Metallic.

Nissan is also lengthening the truck’s wheelbase by 15 inches for a total length of 151.6 inches. However, the company announced it will only be offered as a 4×4 crew cab. Additionally, all Titan XD models set to roll out in 2020 will come with a 6.5-foot truck bed that features LED “surround” lighting, a standard 8.0-inch touchscreen, and Nissan’s Safety Shield 360 suite.

Official pricing is not yet available, but the 2020 Nissan Titan XD is set to go on sale early next year.